Used BMW 1 Series 2019-present reliability

When viewing a used car, always follow our used car buying checklist.

Have a look around the car to see if the bodywork or wheels show any signs of damage. Inside, check that all the electrics are functioning properly and look for any damage to the interior trim and upholstery. Don't forget to take the car for a test drive – pay close attention to any unusual noises, such as bangs or knocks from the suspension.

If you're buying through the BMW approved used scheme, make sure that the infotainment system has been updated to the current software.

At the time of writing, the BMW 1 Series has two recalls listed. To check whether they have affected your car, you can contact your local BMW dealer. You will not need to pay for anything involving the recall.

Reason for recall

This airbag fabric could be damaged by the airbag cover during deployment.

How the manufacturer will repair: On the affected vehicles the driver's airbag will be replaced.

Number of affected vehicles: 1121

Date of recall: 27/04/2020

Reason for recall

It is possible that the camshaft bearing cap screws could come loose on the affected vehicles.

How the manufacturer will repair: Check and replace camshaft support housing or complete cylinder head as required.

Number of affected vehicles: 39

Date of recall: 27/07/2020

The current generation of 1 Series finished in third place out of 25 cars in the family car class in our most recent What Car? Reliability Survey, with a great overall score of 98.6%.

Reliability rating 98.6%

Despite being BMW's entry-level model, the 1 Series is the brand's most dependable car. Only 8% of owners encountered hiccups, with mainly non-engine electrical gremlins. All cars remained driveable, and two-thirds were fixed in less than a week. Eighty-three percent of repairs were done for free; 17% of owners paid up to £100.

Used BMW 1 Series reliability: the owners' view

In our most recent Reliability Survey, 1 Series owners said they had a mixed experience with reliability and dealer support. A number of owners praised the car for being dependable day to day, with some reporting no faults at all. However, others noted recurring issues, particularly with warning lights appearing without clear cause and electrical gremlins affecting infotainment systems.

Diesel variants saw a higher incidence of problems, including diesel particulate filter (DPF) warnings and occasional engine management faults. While a few faults were resolved quickly under warranty, others required multiple dealer visits, with one owner expressing frustration over a repeated fault that "kept returning despite being ‘fixed’."

Dealer service also drew criticism from several owners, with delays in parts availability and slow diagnostic turnaround times being common themes. A few did highlight helpful staff, but overall satisfaction with dealer support was inconsistent.

If you'd like to see the full reliability list, head to the What Car? Reliability Survey pages for more information.